The Archives
Discover the world of natural perfume—where history, science, and artistry blend. From the storied traditions of Grasse to the chemistry of botanicals, we explore the many layers of scent. Whether you’re drawn to the craftsmanship behind plant-based fragrances or simply love the magic of a beautiful aroma, we’re here to expand your olfactory journey.
Transgressive Aromatics: The Cultural Politics of ‘Difficult’ Scents
Explore how "difficult" scents reveal cultural biases and power dynamics. From cumin to animalics, controversial fragrances challenge social boundaries and reflect racial politics.
The Big Apple's Green Scent: How New York’s Secret Landscapes Inspire Natural Perfumery
Explore the profound influence of New York's style on the creation and diversity of natural fragrances. Translating the city's vibrancy, green spaces, nightlife into scents that echo of the Big...
Fragrance Laureates: The Untold Literary History of Perfumer-Writers
Explore the untold history of perfumer-writers: from Colette's professional nose to modern literary scents. How dual mastery of molecules and metaphors transforms both arts.
Atmospheric Inheritance: Generational Scent Memory and Cultural Identity
Explore how childhood scents shape cultural identity and connect generations. This noir-inspired analysis reveals how our olfactory memory creates invisible bonds to heritage.
The Post-Extinction Perfumer: Creating Scents in an Era of Vanishing Botanicals
Explore how climate change transforms perfumery as botanical ingredients vanish. This noir-inspired analysis examines the ethical dilemmas of preserving scent in an era of loss.
Perfume with Patchouli: The Exotic Scent That Defined New York’s Signature Style
Discover how perfume with patchouli transformed from an exotic essence to New York’s defining fragrance. Explore the rich history behind this luxurious scent that continues to influence urban style, from...
Scented Threads: The Fragrant Tale of Perfumed Fabrics
Journey through time with perfumed fabrics—from ancient rituals to modern luxury. Explore how scented textiles create multi-sensory experiences across cultures and centuries.
Shadows in the Parterre: The Fragrant Whispers of East and West
Explore how scented gardens expressed power across Mughal India, French châteaux, and Gilded Age America in this journey through fragrant cultural landscapes.
